Moving to a new country is exciting — but moving your entire home across international borders? That’s a whole different game. And if you’re wondering how to shift to Dubai from India, you’re not alone.
Dubai has emerged as a top destination for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and families over the last decade. With its tax-free salaries, futuristic skyline, world-class infrastructure, and close proximity to India, it offers the best of both worlds — a global lifestyle with an Indian touch.
But behind the dream of palm-lined roads and luxury apartments lies a practical reality: How do you actually move everything you own — furniture, clothes, electronics, even the kids’ toys — to another country?
That’s where Relocate Xpress steps in.
As a leading international packers and movers company in India, Relocate Xpress specializes in helping families and professionals relocate to Dubai safely, affordably, and stress-free. From customized packing to air or sea freight, from documentation support to doorstep delivery in the UAE — we make the process as smooth as possible.
This guide will walk you through every step of how to shift to Dubai from India — what to pack, how to ship, what documents are needed, and how Relocate Xpress helps you make the move without missing a beat.
Let’s dive into your relocation journey.
Why Moving to Dubai Is the Big Dream (and a Bigger Shift)
Dubai continues to be a dream destination for many Indians — offering tax-free income, a multicultural environment, and countless professional opportunities. Whether you’re moving for a job, business, or a better lifestyle, the process can feel overwhelming.
Step 1: Planning Your Move with Relocate Xpress
The most crucial step is preparing early. A successful international move is 70% planning, 30% execution.
Here’s how Relocate Xpress makes it seamless:
Our Services:
- End-to-End Packing & Moving: From doorstep pickup in India to doorstep delivery in Dubai
- Professional Packing: Fragile items, electronics, furniture — all packed to international standards
- Air & Sea Freight: Based on your budget, speed, and volume
- Customs Clearance Assistance: We guide you with documentation, item declaration, and UAE customs guidelines
Initial Consultation:
We help you decide:
- What to carry
- What to sell/donate/store
- What needs special care
- Best freight option (air or sea)
Packing Checklist: moving to Dubai checklist (Home Edition)
| Items | Action Needed | Handled by Relocate Xpress |
|---|---|---|
| Clothes, Books, Kitchenware | Pack in labeled boxes | ✅ Yes |
| Fragile Items (Glassware, Decor) | Use bubble wrap, foam padding | ✅ Yes |
| Furniture (Sofa, Bed, Dining) | Dismantle, crate, wrap securely | ✅ Yes |
| Electronics (TV, Fridge, AC) | Crate and shock-proof packaging | ✅ Yes |
Pro tip: Don’t overpack. Dubai homes are often smaller in size than Indian houses. Prioritize what truly matters.
Step 2: What Documents Are Required?
One of the most common questions is: What are the documents required to move to Dubai from India for household shipping?
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Document | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Passport Copy | Identity verification |
| Valid UAE Visa | For shipment clearance in Dubai |
| Emirates ID (if available) | Optional, useful for local delivery |
| Detailed Packing List | Mandatory for customs |
| Value Declaration/Invoice | For insurance and tax calculations |
| NOC from Society (India) | If required by your apartment complex |
Step 3: Choose Your Shipping Method — Air vs Sea
When deciding how to shift to Dubai from India, you must weigh your budget, urgency, and cargo volume.
| Method | Ideal For | Delivery Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | Entire households, furniture sets | 25–40 days | Lower (best value) |
| Air Freight | Important documents, electronics | 7–10 days | Higher (time-saving) |
Many clients send essentials via air, and the rest via sea freight for better cost management.
Cost of Living in Dubai for Indians (2025)
Understanding Dubai’s cost of living helps you decide what to ship from India (especially furniture, utensils, and essentials) vs what to buy locally.
| Category | India (₹) | Dubai (AED) | Equivalent ₹ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 BHK Rent | ₹20,000 | AED 3,500 | ₹78,000 |
| Utilities (DEWA) | ₹2,500 | AED 500 | ₹11,000 |
| Internet & Mobile | ₹1,500 | AED 300 | ₹6,600 |
| Grocery (Monthly) | ₹7,000 | AED 900 | ₹19,800 |
| Local Transport | ₹1,000 | AED 250 | ₹5,500 |
It’s often cheaper to ship your belongings than buying everything again in Dubai — especially for families.
What You Should NOT Pack
The UAE has strict regulations on certain items. Avoid these when shipping:
- Alcohol or narcotics
- Religious idols in large sizes/quantities
- Gold/silver in excess
- Firearms, knives, toy guns
- Pornographic material
- Medicines (without prescriptions)
Relocate Xpress pre-screens your boxes to ensure they’re customs-compliant.
What Happens After You Land in Dubai?
While we focus on moving your belongings, here’s what you can expect post-arrival:
Moving to Dubai checklist (Post-arrival Essentials)
| Task | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Take delivery of shipment | 1–5 days post-arrival | Relocate Xpress doorstep delivery |
| Setup electricity/water (DEWA) | Within 48 hrs | Landlord/agent will assist |
| Buy furniture (if needed) | Ongoing | IKEA, Danube, or pre-owned sites |
| Apply for Emirates ID | Within 10 days | Required for official work |
| Join Indian expat groups | Anytime | Facebook, Meetup, WhatsApp |
Why Choose Relocate Xpress?
We don’t just move your items — we move your memories, peace of mind, and future comfort.
Here’s what makes us different:
| Feature | Relocate Xpress Advantage |
|---|---|
| End-to-End Door Delivery | ✅ Yes |
| Expert Packing Team | ✅ Trained for international standards |
| Shipment Tracking | ✅ Live updates provided |
| Free Pre-Move Consultation | ✅ Plan your budget and timeline |
| Transparent Pricing | ✅ No hidden fees |
| Insurance Assistance | ✅ Available for all cargo types |
Whether it’s a studio apartment or a 4BHK villa, we’ve done it all — and always on time.
Dubai Migration Trend (Indians 2015–2025)
As of 2025, over 3.5 million Indians live and work in the UAE — making it one of the largest expat communities in the region.
Final Words: Shift Smart, Settle Smooth
Relocating to Dubai is a life-changing opportunity — but it doesn’t have to come with relocation anxiety.
Knowing how to shift to Dubai from India is step one. Having Relocate Xpress by your side is step two — and the one that makes all the difference.
Let us handle the packing, customs, and logistics — while you focus on your exciting new journey in Dubai.
Ready to Move?
Get a free consultation call or a custom moving quote based on your house size, shipment volume, and timeline.
Get Your Quote Now
We operate in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, Ahmedabad and more.
Further Reading & Useful Guides
For a comprehensive relocation strategy — including visas, international banking, and settling overseas — refer to Relocate Xpress’s complementary blog: “How to Move Abroad from India in 2025: Step‑by‑Step Relocation Guide”
This article complements our current guide on how to shift to Dubai from India (Logistics Edition).
